Keith Wyness shares 'key' to Newcastle unlocking Matias Fernandez-Pardo

Keith Wyness says Fernandez-Pardo needs a settled position to thrive; the £51m signing has played as striker, winger and attacking midfielder.

Former Everton chief executive Keith Wyness believes Newcastle's £51 million summer signing Matias Fernandez-Pardo is being hindered by a lack of positional clarity under manager Matthias Jaissle. The 21-year-old Belgium international has started just four league games and has been deployed as a central striker, winger and attacking midfielder, which Wyness argues is preventing him from settling and developing.

Fernandez-Pardo, who scored eight goals and six assists for Lille last season, is yet to register a goal involvement in the Premier League since his move. Wyness does not expect immediate regret from the player but warns that frustration could set in within a year if the situation does not improve.

"There's just no specific role for him to settle into," Wyness said. "I think any regret would come maybe a year from now in November, next November."

The comments add to growing concerns about Jaissle's methods at Newcastle, with former scout Bryan King recently describing the German manager's approach as "not at all convincing" and suggesting the squad is already frustrated with his appointment.